Outdoor unit comprising refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit, and method for installing refrigerant pipe in outdoor unit

Abstract

The disclosed outdoor unit of an air conditioner comprises a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit for adjusting the installation position of refrigerant pipes, wherein the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit can include: a plurality of outer service valves connected to the refrigerant pipes, and disposed at positions different from one side of a housing at which a plurality of service valves are provided; a plurality of outer pipes fluidly connecting the plurality of service valves and the plurality of outer service valves, and being shaped such that at least a part there of is bent to correspond to the corner of the housing; and a bracket for supporting the plurality of external service valves.

Description

Outdoor unit including refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit and method for installing refrigerant pipes to outdoor unit

[0001] The embodiments provide an outdoor unit of an air conditioner in which the installation position of a refrigerant pipe is adjusted by a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit, and a method for installing a refrigerant pipe in the outdoor unit.

[0002] In general, an air conditioner is a device that includes a refrigeration cycle, and may include an indoor unit placed in an indoor space and an outdoor unit placed in an outdoor space.

[0003] The indoor unit is installed indoors, draws in indoor air, exchanges heat with the refrigerant, and discharges the heat-exchanged air back into the room. The outdoor unit exchanges heat with the refrigerant drawn from the indoor unit, making it ready for heat exchange with indoor air again before supplying it to the indoor unit. Multiple refrigerant pipes are arranged between the indoor and outdoor units to transport the refrigerant.

[0004] The outdoor unit includes a plurality of service valves for connection to a plurality of refrigerant pipes. The plurality of service valves may be provided on one side of the housing forming the exterior of the outdoor unit.

[0005] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing forming an exterior, a plurality of service valves arranged on one side of the housing, and a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit connected to the plurality of service valves and configured to adjust an installation position of a refrigerant pipe.

[0006] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is configured to be connected to the refrigerant pipe and may include a plurality of external service valves positioned at different locations from one side of the housing.

[0007] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may further include a plurality of external pipes that fluidly connect the plurality of service valves and the plurality of external service valves, and have at least a portion of the pipes having a curved shape corresponding to a corner of the housing.

[0008] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may further include a bracket configured to support the plurality of external service valves.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for installing a refrigerant pipe in an outdoor unit can be provided using a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit.

[0010] The method for installing a refrigerant pipe to the outdoor unit may include a step of installing the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit to the outdoor unit so that the external pipe of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is connected to the plurality of service valves of the outdoor unit.

[0011] The method for installing refrigerant pipes in the above outdoor unit may further include a step of connecting a plurality of refrigerant pipes to each of the plurality of external service valves of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit.

[0012] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe for transferring refrigerant therebetween.

[0013] The above outdoor unit may include a housing forming an exterior, a plurality of service valves arranged on one side of the housing, and a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit connected to the plurality of service valves and configured to adjust the installation position of the refrigerant pipe.

[0014] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is configured to be connected to the refrigerant pipe and may include a plurality of external service valves positioned at different locations from one side of the housing.

[0015] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may further include a plurality of external pipes that fluidly connect the plurality of service valves and the plurality of external service valves, and have at least a portion of the pipes having a curved shape corresponding to a corner of the housing.

[0016] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may further include a bracket configured to support the plurality of external service valves.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a rear view of an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is mounted on an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is separated from an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 7 is an enlarged perspective view centered on the external service valve in Figure 4.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a side view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the left.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a rear view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an example in which a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed in an outdoor unit.

[0029] Figure 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 12.

[0030] FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an example in which a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed in an outdoor unit.

[0031] FIG. 15a and FIG. 15b are drawings showing an example of a packaged state of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for connecting a refrigerant pipe to an outdoor unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0034] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0035] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0036] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0037] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0038] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0039] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0040] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0041] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0042] When we say that a component is “on” another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0043] An air conditioner according to various embodiments is a device that performs functions such as air purification, ventilation, humidity control, cooling or heating in an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”), and means a device equipped with at least one of these functions.

[0044] In one embodiment, an air conditioner may include a heat pump device to perform a cooling function or a heating function. The heat pump device may include a refrigeration cycle in which a refrigerant circulates along a compressor, a first heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. All components of the heat pump device may be housed in a single housing forming the exterior of the air conditioner, such as a window air conditioner or a portable air conditioner. On the other hand, some components of the heat pump device may be housed separately in multiple housings forming a single air conditioner, such as a wall-mounted air conditioner, a stand-alone air conditioner, and a system air conditioner.

[0045] An air conditioner including a plurality of housings may include at least one outdoor unit installed outdoors and at least one indoor unit installed indoors. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit and one indoor unit are connected via a refrigerant pipe. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes. For example, the air conditioner may be configured such that two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units are connected via a plurality of refrigerant pipes.

[0046] The outdoor unit can be electrically connected to the indoor unit. For example, information (or commands) for controlling the air conditioner can be input through an input interface provided on the outdoor or indoor unit, and the outdoor and indoor units can operate simultaneously or sequentially in response to user input.

[0047] The air conditioner may include an outdoor heat exchanger provided in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger provided in the indoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0048] An outdoor heat exchanger can utilize a phase change (e.g., evaporation or condensation) of the refrigerant to exchange heat between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. For example, while the refrigerant condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger, it releases heat to the outdoor air, and while the refrigerant flowing in the outdoor heat exchanger evaporates, it absorbs heat from the outdoor air.

[0049] Indoor units are installed indoors. For example, indoor units can be categorized into ceiling-mounted, stand-alone, and wall-mounted types depending on their placement. For example, ceiling-mounted indoor units can be categorized into four-way, one-way, and duct-type indoor units depending on how air is discharged.

[0050] Similarly, an indoor heat exchanger can utilize the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., evaporation or condensation) to exchange heat between the refrigerant and indoor air. For example, while the refrigerant evaporates in the indoor unit, the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air. The cooled indoor air can then be blown through the cooled indoor heat exchanger, thereby cooling the room. Furthermore, while the refrigerant condenses in the indoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air. By blowing the heated indoor air through the high-temperature indoor heat exchanger, the room can be heated.

[0051] That is, the air conditioner performs a cooling or heating function through a phase change process of the refrigerant circulating between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger. To circulate the refrigerant, the air conditioner may include a compressor that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor can suck in refrigerant gas through the suction port and compress the refrigerant gas. The compressor can discharge the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant gas through the discharge port. The compressor may be placed inside the outdoor unit.

[0052] The refrigerant may circulate through the refrigerant pipes in the order of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an indoor heat exchanger, or in the order of a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, and an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0053] For example, if an air conditioner has one outdoor unit and one indoor unit directly connected through a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant may be arranged to circulate between one outdoor unit and one indoor unit through the refrigerant pipe.

[0054] For example, in an air conditioner, if one outdoor unit is connected to two or more indoor units via refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant can flow to multiple indoor units via refrigerant pipes branching from the outdoor unit. The refrigerant discharged from the multiple indoor units can be combined and circulated to the outdoor unit. For example, multiple indoor units can be directly connected in parallel to a single outdoor unit via separate refrigerant pipes.

[0055] Multiple indoor units can operate independently, each according to a user-defined operating mode. That is, some indoor units can operate in cooling mode, while others operate in heating mode. In this case, the refrigerant can be selectively introduced into each indoor unit at either high or low pressure along a designated circulation path via a flow-through valve, described later, and then discharged to the outdoor unit for circulation.

[0056] For example, when an air conditioner has two or more outdoor units and two or more indoor units connected through multiple refrigerant pipes, the refrigerant discharged from the multiple outdoor units may merge and flow through a single refrigerant pipe, then branch off again at some point and flow into multiple indoor units.

[0057] Multiple outdoor units may all be operated, or at least some may not be operated, depending on the operating load of the multiple indoor units. In this case, the refrigerant may be introduced into the outdoor unit, which is selectively operated, through a flow switching valve and circulated there. The air conditioner may include an expansion device to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger. For example, the expansion device may be located within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit, or both.

[0058] An expansion device can, for example, utilize a throttling effect to lower the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. The expansion device may include an orifice capable of reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path. Refrigerant passing through the orifice may experience a decrease in temperature and pressure.

[0059] The expansion device may be implemented as, for example, an electronic expansion valve capable of controlling the opening ratio (the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when partially open to the cross-sectional area of ​​the valve's flow path when fully open). Depending on the opening ratio of the electronic expansion valve, the amount of refrigerant passing through the expansion device can be controlled.

[0060] The air conditioner may further include a flow diverter valve positioned along the refrigerant circulation path. The flow diverter valve may include, for example, a four-way valve. The flow diverter valve may determine the refrigerant circulation path depending on the indoor unit's operating mode (e.g., cooling operation or heating operation). The flow diverter valve may be connected to the discharge port of the compressor.

[0061] The air conditioner may include an accumulator. The accumulator may be connected to the suction port of the compressor. The accumulator may receive low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vaporized in an indoor heat exchanger or an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0062] The accumulator can separate the refrigerant liquid from the refrigerant gas when a refrigerant mixture of refrigerant liquid and refrigerant gas is introduced, and provide the refrigerant gas from which the refrigerant liquid has been separated to the compressor.

[0063] An outdoor fan may be installed near the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan may blow outdoor air to the outdoor heat exchanger to promote heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air.

[0064] The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor of the outdoor unit may be provided as an environmental sensor. The outdoor unit sensor may be positioned at any location inside or outside the outdoor unit. For example, the outdoor unit sensor may include a temperature sensor for detecting the air temperature around the outdoor unit, a humidity sensor for detecting the air humidity around the outdoor unit, a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting the refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit, or a refrigerant pressure sensor for detecting the refrigerant pressure of a refrigerant pipe passing through the outdoor unit.

[0065] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may be configured to receive a control signal from a control unit of an indoor unit of the air conditioner, which will be described later. The outdoor unit may control the operation of a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion device, a flow switching valve, an accumulator, or an outdoor fan based on the control signal received through the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit may transmit a sensing value detected by an outdoor unit sensor to the control unit of the indoor unit through the outdoor unit communication unit.

[0066] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a housing, a blower for circulating air into or out of the housing, and an indoor heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air flowing into the interior of the housing.

[0067] The housing may include an intake port through which indoor air may be drawn into the interior of the housing.

[0068] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a filter that is provided to filter foreign substances in the air that flows into the housing through the intake port.

[0069] The housing may include an exhaust port. Air flowing within the housing may be discharged to the exterior of the housing through the exhaust port.

[0070] The housing of the indoor unit may be provided with an airflow guide that guides the direction of air discharged through the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include blades positioned above the exhaust port. For example, the airflow guide may include an auxiliary fan for controlling the exhaust airflow. However, the airflow guide is not limited thereto and may be omitted.

[0071] An indoor heat exchanger and a blower may be provided inside the housing of the indoor unit, which are arranged on a path connecting the intake and exhaust ports.

[0072] Blowers may include indoor fans and fan motors. For example, indoor fans may include axial fans, diffusion fans, crossflow fans, and centrifugal fans.

[0073] An indoor heat exchanger may be positioned between the blower and the exhaust, or between the intake and the blower. The indoor heat exchanger may absorb heat from air drawn in through the intake or transfer heat to the air drawn in through the intake. The indoor heat exchanger may include heat exchange tubes through which refrigerant flows, and heat exchange fins in contact with the heat exchange tubes to increase the heat transfer surface area.

[0074] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a drain tray positioned below the indoor heat exchanger to collect condensate generated in the indoor heat exchanger. The condensate collected in the drain tray may be drained to the outside through a drain hose. The drain tray may be provided to support the indoor heat exchanger.

[0075] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an input interface. The input interface may include any type of user input means, including buttons, switches, a touch screen, and / or a touch pad. The user can directly input setting data (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operating mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air flow settings) through the input interface.

[0076] The input interface may also be connected to an external input device. For example, the input interface may be electrically connected to a wired remote controller. The wired remote controller may be installed at a specific location in an indoor space (e.g., a portion of a wall). A user may input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner by operating the wired remote controller. Electrical signals corresponding to the configuration data obtained through the wired remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface. In addition, the input interface may include an infrared sensor. A user may remotely input configuration data regarding the operation of the air conditioner using a wireless remote controller. The configuration data input through the wireless remote controller may be transmitted to the input interface as an infrared signal.

[0077] Additionally, the input interface may include a microphone. A user's voice command may be acquired through the microphone. The microphone may convert the user's voice command into an electrical signal and transmit the converted electrical signal to an indoor unit control unit. The indoor unit control unit may control components of the air conditioner to execute a function corresponding to the user's voice command. Setting data acquired through the input interface (e.g., desired indoor temperature, operation mode settings for cooling / heating / dehumidification / air purification, outlet selection settings, and / or air volume settings) may be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit, which will be described later. In one example, the setting data acquired through the input interface may be transmitted externally, i.e., to an outdoor unit or a server, through an indoor unit communication unit, which will be described later.

[0078] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include a power module. The power module may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the components of the indoor unit.

[0079] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an indoor unit sensor. The indoor unit sensor may be an environmental sensor positioned in a space inside or outside the housing. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include one or more temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors positioned in a predetermined space inside or outside the housing of the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include a refrigerant temperature sensor for detecting a refrigerant temperature of a refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit sensor may include respective refrigerant temperature sensors for detecting the inlet, middle, and / or outlet temperatures of the refrigerant pipe passing through the indoor heat exchanger.

[0080] For example, each environmental information detected by an indoor unit sensor can be transmitted to the indoor unit control unit described later or transmitted externally through the indoor unit communication unit described later.

[0081] The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit communication unit. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module. The indoor unit communication unit may include at least one antenna for wireless communication with other devices. The outdoor unit may include an outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit may also include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0082] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0083] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0084] The indoor unit communication unit can communicate with external devices such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the air conditioner or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The air conditioner or user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The indoor unit of the air conditioner may include an indoor unit control unit that controls components of the indoor unit, including a blower, etc. The outdoor unit of the air conditioner may include an outdoor unit control unit that controls components of the outdoor unit, including a compressor, etc. The indoor unit control unit can communicate with the outdoor unit control unit through the indoor unit communication unit and the outdoor unit communication unit. The outdoor unit communication unit can transmit control signals generated by the outdoor unit control unit to the indoor unit communication unit, or transmit control signals transmitted from the indoor unit communication unit to the outdoor unit control unit. In other words, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit can communicate bidirectionally. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit can transmit and receive various signals generated during the operation of the air conditioner.

[0085] The outdoor unit control unit can be electrically connected to components of the outdoor unit and can control the operation of each component. For example, the outdoor unit control unit can adjust the frequency of the compressor and control the flow switching valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant. The outdoor unit control unit can adjust the rotation speed of the outdoor fan. In addition, the outdoor unit control unit can generate a control signal to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve. Under the control of the outdoor unit control unit, the refrigerant can circulate along a refrigerant circulation circuit including the compressor, the flow switching valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger.

[0086] The various temperature sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected temperatures to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit. For example, the humidity sensors included in the outdoor and indoor units can transmit electrical signals corresponding to the detected humidity to the outdoor unit control unit and / or the indoor unit control unit.

[0087] The indoor unit control unit can obtain user input from a user device, including a mobile device, via the indoor unit communication unit, and can obtain user input directly through the input interface or via a remote controller. The indoor unit control unit can control components of the indoor unit, including a blower, in response to the received user input. The indoor unit control unit can transmit information regarding the received user input to the outdoor unit control unit of the outdoor unit.

[0088] The outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit, including the compressor, based on information regarding user input received from the indoor unit. For example, when a control signal corresponding to a user input for selecting an operation mode, such as cooling operation, heating operation, ventilation operation, defrosting operation, or dehumidification operation, is received from the indoor unit, the outdoor unit control unit can control the components of the outdoor unit so that the air conditioner performs an operation corresponding to the selected operation mode.

[0089] The outdoor unit control unit and the indoor unit control unit may each include a processor and a memory. The indoor unit control unit may include at least one first processor and at least one first memory, and the outdoor unit control unit may include at least one second processor and at least one second memory.

[0090] The memory can store / remember various information necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. The memory can store instructions, applications, data, and / or programs necessary for the operation of the air conditioner. For example, the memory can store various programs for cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and / or defrosting operations of the air conditioner. The memory can include volatile memory, such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory can include nonvolatile memory, such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), for storing data for a long period of time.

[0091] The processor can generate control signals for controlling the operation of the air conditioner based on instructions, applications, data, and / or programs stored in memory. The processor, as hardware, may include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor can process data according to programs and / or instructions provided from the memory and generate control signals based on the processing results. The memory and the processor may be implemented as a single control circuit or as multiple circuits.

[0092] An indoor unit of an air conditioner may include an output interface. The output interface is electrically connected to the indoor unit control unit and can output information related to the operation of the air conditioner under the control of the indoor unit control unit. For example, information such as an operating mode selected by a user input, wind direction, wind volume, and temperature may be output. Additionally, the output interface may output sensing information obtained from an indoor unit sensor or an outdoor unit sensor, as well as warning / error messages.

[0093] The output interface may include a display and a speaker. The speaker, as an audio device, can output various sounds. The display may display information input by the user or information provided to the user using various graphic elements. For example, operation information of an air conditioner may be displayed as at least an image or text. The display may also include an indicator that provides specific information. The display may include a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), a light emitting diode panel (LED), an organic light emitting diode panel (OLED), a micro LED panel, and / or a plurality of LEDs.

[0094] Hereinafter, an air conditioner (1) according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0095] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing an air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] An air conditioner (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an outdoor unit (20), an indoor unit (10), and a refrigerant pipe (30) for refrigerant transfer between them.

[0097] An air conditioner (1) according to various embodiments can absorb heat from an air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “indoor”) and release heat from the outside of the air-conditioned space (hereinafter referred to as “outdoor”) in order to cool the air-conditioned space that is the target of air conditioning.

[0098] An air conditioner (1) may include one or more outdoor units (20) installed outdoors and one or more indoor units (10) installed indoors. The outdoor unit (20) may be electrically connected to the indoor unit (10). For example, a user may input information (or commands) for controlling the indoor unit (10) through a user interface, and the outdoor unit (20) may operate in response to the user input of the indoor unit (10).

[0099] The outdoor unit (20) is installed outdoors. The outdoor unit (20) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air by utilizing the phase change (e.g., expansion or compression) of the refrigerant. For example, while the refrigerant is compressed in the outdoor unit (20), the refrigerant can release heat to the outdoor air. While the refrigerant is expanded in the outdoor unit (20), the refrigerant can absorb heat from the outdoor air.

[0100] The indoor unit (10) is installed indoors. The indoor unit (10) can be installed indoors in various forms. For example, the indoor unit (10) can be implemented in a stand-alone form, a wall-mounted form, a system air conditioner form built into the ceiling, or a home multi-air conditioner form. The indoor unit (10) can perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and indoor air by utilizing the phase change of the refrigerant (e.g., expansion or compression). For example, while the refrigerant expands in the indoor unit (10), the refrigerant can absorb heat from the indoor air, and the indoor space can be cooled. While the refrigerant is compressed in the indoor unit (10), the refrigerant can release heat to the indoor air, and the indoor space can be heated.

[0101] The outdoor unit (20) can be fluidly connected to the indoor unit (10) through a refrigerant pipe (30). Through the refrigerant pipe (30), refrigerant can be circulated between the outdoor unit (20) and the indoor unit (10). The refrigerant circulates through the compressor (24), outdoor heat exchanger, and expansion device of the outdoor unit (20) and the indoor heat exchanger of the indoor unit (10) through the refrigerant pipe (30).

[0102] The outdoor unit (20) may be connected to each of the indoor units (10) so that refrigerant circulates through two refrigerant pipes (30). For example, the outdoor unit (20) may be connected to the first indoor unit (10) through two refrigerant pipes (30), and may be connected to the second indoor unit (10) through the other two refrigerant pipes (30). In the embodiment, an example in which four refrigerant pipes are connected to the outdoor unit (20) has been described, but the number of refrigerant pipes (30) connected to the outdoor unit (20) is not limited thereto, and may vary depending on the number of indoor units (10).

[0103] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an outdoor unit (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3 is a rear view of the outdoor unit (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from the rear.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the outdoor unit (20) according to the embodiment includes a housing (21) forming an exterior and a plurality of service valves (23) provided on one side (211) of the housing (21).

[0105] An outdoor heat exchanger (not shown), a compressor (24), an outdoor fan (25), etc. may be arranged inside the housing (21). An indoor pipe (not shown) for transporting refrigerant to the outdoor heat exchanger, compressor (24), etc. may be arranged inside the housing (21). A plurality of legs (22) may be arranged at the bottom of the housing (21). By the plurality of legs (22), the housing (21) may be installed so as to be spaced apart from the floor surface. However, since the plurality of legs (22) is an optional configuration, it may be omitted as needed.

[0106] A plurality of service valves (23) may be provided to be exposed to the outside on one side (211) of the housing (21). For example, when the direction in which the outdoor fan (25) faces in the housing (21) is considered to be forward, the plurality of service valves (23) may be provided to be exposed to the outside on the left side of the housing (21). However, the arrangement of the plurality of service valves (23) is not limited thereto and may vary. For example, unlike FIG. 3, the plurality of service valves (23) may be provided to be exposed to the outside on the right side of the housing (21).

[0107] A plurality of service valves (23) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other on one side (211) of the housing (21). For example, a plurality of service valves (23) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction on one side (211) of the housing (21). For example, a plurality of service valves (23) may be arranged in a zigzag shape along the vertical direction on one side (211) of the housing (21). However, the arrangement of the plurality of service valves (23) is not limited thereto, and may be modified in various ways as long as they are spaced apart from each other.

[0108] The service valve (23) may be connected to an internal pipe that transports refrigerant within the housing (21). The outdoor unit (20) may transfer refrigerant to the indoor unit (10) or receive refrigerant from the indoor unit (10) through the service valve (23). The service valve (23) may protrude outward from the surface of one side (211) of the housing (21).

[0109] The service valve (23) includes a refrigerant inlet / outlet port (231) for inflow / outflow of refrigerant and a valve adjustment portion (232) for blocking the inflow / outflow of refrigerant. The refrigerant inlet / outlet port (231) and the valve adjustment portion (232) of the service valve (23) may protrude outward from the surface of one side (211) of the housing (21).

[0110] The refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) may be arranged to face the rear of the housing (21). For example, the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) may be arranged to be inclined so as to face the rear and upper portion of the housing (21). However, the direction of the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) is not limited thereto and may vary.

[0111] Among the plurality of service valves (23), at least some of the service valves (23) may have different sizes. For example, the plurality of service valves (23) may have different sizes depending on the pressure of the refrigerant being transported and the type of the outdoor unit (20) to which they are connected. For example, among the plurality of service valves (23), the diameter of the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) of the service valve (23) for transporting the low-pressure refrigerant may be larger than the diameter of the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) of the service valve (23) for transporting the high-pressure refrigerant. Among the plurality of service valves (23), the diameter of the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) of the service valve (23) connected to the first indoor unit (11), for example, a stand-alone indoor unit, may be larger than the diameter of the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) of the service valve (23) connected to the second indoor unit (12), for example, a wall-mounted indoor unit.

[0112] As in the outdoor unit (20) disclosed in Fig. 1, a refrigerant pipe (30) can be directly connected to a service valve (23) disposed on one side (211) of the housing (21). However, depending on the convenience of the operator, the installation environment of the outdoor unit (20), the user's needs, etc., there may be cases where it is difficult or impossible to connect the refrigerant pipe (30) to the service valve (23) disposed on one side (211) of the housing (21). For example, in the space where the outdoor unit (20) is installed, the space adjacent to one side (211) of the housing (21) where the service valve (23) is provided may be very narrow, making it difficult for the operator to connect the refrigerant pipe (30) to the service valve (23).

[0113] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, for an outdoor unit (20) having a service valve (23) provided on one side (211) of a housing (21), a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) may be provided to allow an operator to adjust (or change) the installation position of the refrigerant pipe (30) of the outdoor unit (20) so that the refrigerant pipe (30) can be connected at a location other than one side (211) of the housing (21). The refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) may be handled as a part of the outdoor unit (20). For example, the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) may be sold together with the air conditioner (1) or the outdoor unit (20). However, the handling of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) is not necessarily limited thereto and may vary. For example, the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) may be handled as a separate component from the outdoor unit (20).

[0114] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) is mounted on an outdoor unit (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) is separated from the outdoor unit (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7 is an enlarged perspective view centered on the external service valve (120) in Fig. 4.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, according to an embodiment, a refrigerant pipe (30) can be installed or connected to the outdoor unit (20) at a position different from one side (211) of the outdoor unit (20) through a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) without changing the internal configuration of the outdoor unit (20). For example, using the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100), a refrigerant pipe (30) can be connected to the outdoor unit (20) at the other side (212) located opposite one side (211) of the outdoor unit (20).

[0116] The refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) may include a plurality of external pipes (110) for transporting refrigerant from the outside of the outdoor unit (20), a plurality of external service valves (120) fixed to each end of the plurality of external pipes (110), and a bracket (130) for supporting the plurality of external service valves (120).

[0117] Each of the plurality of external pipes (110) can be fluidly connected to a service valve (23) of the outdoor unit (20). For example, the plurality of external pipes (110) can be detachably connected to a refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) of the service valve (23). For example, the external pipes (110) can be fluidly connected to the service valve (23) via a coupling member (41) that is detachably assembled to the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) of the service valve (23).

[0118] The coupling member (41) is fixed to one end of the outer pipe (110) and can be detachably connected to the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231). The coupling member (41) may be a nipple, a smart link, or the like.

[0119] The material of the plurality of outer pipes (110) may include metal. For example, the plurality of outer pipes (110) may include at least one of copper and aluminum.

[0120] The plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged to be spaced apart from one side (211) of the housing (21). The plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged adjacent to the other side (212) of the housing (21). For example, the plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged closer to the other side (212) of the housing (21) than to the one side (211). For example, the plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged below the other side (212) of the housing (21). The plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged such that at least a portion thereof protrudes outward from the surface of the other side (212) of the housing (21).

[0121] The external service valve (120) can be fluidly connected to the service valve (23) via an external pipe (110). In other words, a plurality of external pipes (110) can fluidly connect a plurality of service valves (23) and a plurality of external service valves (120). The external pipe (110) can have one end fluidly connected to a service valve (23) disposed on one side (211) of the housing (21), and the other end fluidly connected to an external service valve (120) spaced apart from the one side (211) of the housing (21).

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the other end of the external pipe (110) may be fixed to the external service valve (120). The external service valve (120) and the external pipe (110) may be fixed so as not to be separated. The external service valve (120) may include a pipe connection portion (1201) fixed to the other end of the external pipe (110). The pipe connection portion (1201) may be fixed to the other end of the external pipe (110) by welding. When the external service valve (120) and the external pipe (110) are provided to the worker in a fixed state, the worker can reduce the time required for installing the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100). However, the method of fixing the external pipe (110) and the external service valve (120) is not limited to welding, and various methods for fixing may be used.

[0123] The external service valve (120) may further include a refrigerant pipe connection portion (1202) configured to be connected to a refrigerant pipe (30) and a valve adjustment portion (1203) for blocking the inflow and outflow of the refrigerant. The refrigerant pipe connection portion (1202) and the pipe connection portion (1201) may be fluidly connected to allow the refrigerant to flow. The external service valve (120) may include a support vane (1204) configured to be fixed to a bracket (130).

[0124] A plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged to have a predetermined interval. For example, the interval (G1) between the external service valves (120) may be determined in consideration of a working space for connecting the refrigerant pipe (30). For example, the interval (G1) between the external service valves (120) may be determined in consideration of a space for insertion and rotation of a working tool, such as a spanner, for connecting the refrigerant pipe (30). For example, the interval (G1) between the external service valves (120) may be 20 mm or more. For example, the interval (G1) between the external service valves (120) may be 20 mm to 150 mm.

[0125] A plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged to be spaced apart in the front-back direction. The arrangement direction of the plurality of external service valves (120) may be different from the arrangement direction of the plurality of service valves (23). For example, when the plurality of service valves (23) are arranged to be spaced apart in the vertical direction, the plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged to be spaced apart in the front-back direction.

[0126] The bracket (130) may be configured to support a plurality of external service valves (120). The bracket (130) may include a plurality of positioning grooves (1311) into which a plurality of external service valves (120) can be inserted. The spacing (G2) between the plurality of positioning grooves (1311) may correspond to the spacing (G2) between the external service valves (120). For example, the spacing (G2) between the plurality of positioning grooves (1311) may be 20 mm or more. For example, the spacing (G2) between the positioning grooves (1311) may be 20 mm to 150 mm. A pipe connection (1201) of the external service valve (120) may be inserted into the positioning grooves (1311).

[0127] Each of the plurality of external service valves (120) can have a support wing (1204) fixed to a bracket (130) by a fastening member (44) while the pipe connection portion (1201) is inserted into the positioning groove (1311). In the process of connecting the refrigerant pipe (30) to the external service valve (120), an external force may be applied to the external service valve (120). The bracket (130) can maintain the position of the external service valve (120) despite the external force applied to the external service valve (120). The bracket (130) can prevent the external service valve (120) from moving or rotating in the process of connecting the refrigerant pipe (30).

[0128] The bracket (130) may be configured to be fixed to the housing (21). For example, the bracket (130) and the housing (21) may be fixed by a plurality of fastening members (43). As an example for this, the bracket (130) may include a plurality of fastening holes (1312) into which the fastening members (43) can be inserted. For example, the bracket (130) may have a plate (131) having a width corresponding to the width of the housing (21) in the front-rear direction. The plate (131) may be provided with a plurality of fastening holes (1312) and a plurality of positioning grooves (1311).

[0129] The bracket (130) may be positioned at a position spaced apart from one side (211) of the housing (21). For example, the bracket (130) may be fixed to the other side (212) of the housing (21). For example, the bracket (130) may be fixed to the lower part of the other side (212) of the housing (21).

[0130] A plurality of external pipes (110) may be configured to connect between the service valve (23) and the external service valve (120). At least a portion of the plurality of external pipes (110) may have a bent shape. At least a portion of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be bent to correspond to the corner of the housing (21).

[0131] Referring again to FIG. 5, each of the plurality of external pipes (110) of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) of the present disclosure may include a section arranged across the lower or upper portion of the housing (21). Each of the plurality of external pipes (110) may include a first extension section (1101) that is connected to a refrigerant inlet / outlet port (231) of a service valve (23) and extends along a direction in which the refrigerant inlet / outlet port (231) faces, a second extension section (1102) that extends in a direction different from the extension direction of the first extension section (1101), a first direction change section (1105) that is bent to connect the first extension section (1101) and the second extension section (1102), a third extension section (1103) that is arranged across the lower or upper portion of the housing (21), and a second direction change section (1106) that is bent to connect the second extension section (1102) and the third extension section (1103). The third extension section (1103) may extend in a direction different from the extension direction of the second extension section (1102) and the extension direction of the third extension section (1103).

[0132] FIG. 8 is a side view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from the left, FIG. 9 is a rear view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from the rear, and FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from below. FIG. 11 is a bottom view of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from below.

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 8, at least a portion of the lengths (L1) of the plurality of first extension sections (1101) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be different. For example, the length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the second external pipe (112). The length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the third external pipe (113). The length of the first extension section (1101) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length of the first extension section (1101) of the fourth external pipe (114). The length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the second external pipe (112) may be different from the length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the third external pipe (113). The length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the second external pipe (112) may be different from the length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the fourth external pipe (114). The length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the third external pipe (113) may be different from the length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the fourth external pipe (114). However, the relationship between the lengths (L1) of the first extension sections (1101) between the plurality of external pipes (110) is exemplary and may vary. For example, the lengths (L1) of the plurality of first extension sections (1101) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be at least partially the same.

[0134] A plurality of first extension sections (1101) of a plurality of external pipes (110) may be spaced apart from each other. The spacing (G31) between the plurality of first extension sections (1101) may correspond to the spacing (G) between the plurality of service valves (23). The spacing between the plurality of service valves (23) may be the spacing between the refrigerant inlet and outlet ports (231) of the service valves (23). The spacing (G31) between the plurality of first extension sections (1101) may be the same as the spacing (G) between the plurality of service valves (23). The spacing (G31) between the first extension sections (1101) may be a spacing in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the first extension sections (1101). However, the relationship between the spacing (G31) between the plurality of first extension sections (1101) and the spacing (G) between the plurality of service valves (23) is not limited thereto and may vary.

[0135] The lengths (L2) of the plurality of second extension sections (1102) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be at least partially different. For example, the length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the second external pipe (112). The length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the third external pipe (113). The length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the fourth external pipe (114). The length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the second external pipe (112) may be different from the length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the third external pipe (113). The length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the second external pipe (112) may be different from the length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the fourth external pipe (114). The length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the third external pipe (113) may be different from the length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the fourth external pipe (114). However, the relationship between the lengths (L2) of the second extension sections (1102) between the plurality of external pipes (110) is exemplary and may vary. For example, the lengths (L2) of the plurality of second extension sections (1102) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be at least partially the same.

[0136] The bending angles of the plurality of first direction changing sections (1105) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may correspond to each other. For example, the bending angles of the plurality of first direction changing sections (1105) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be the same or similar within a predetermined range. For example, the difference in the bending angles of the plurality of first direction changing sections (1105) may be within 10% of the maximum bending angle of the first direction changing sections (1105). For example, the difference in the bending angles of the plurality of first direction changing sections (1105) may be within 5% of the maximum bending angle of the first direction changing sections (1105). Here, the bending angle of the first direction changing section (1105) may be the angle formed by the first extension section (1101) and the second extension section (1102).

[0137] Referring to FIG. 9, the bending angles of the plurality of second direction changing sections (1106) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may also correspond. For example, the bending angles of the plurality of second direction changing sections (1106) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be the same or similar within a predetermined range. For example, the difference in the bending angles of the plurality of second direction changing sections (1106) may be within 10% of the maximum bending angle of the second direction changing sections (1106). For example, the difference in the bending angles of the plurality of second direction changing sections (1106) may be within 5% of the maximum bending angle of the second direction changing sections (1106). Here, the bending angle of the second direction changing section (1106) may be the angle formed by the second extension section (1102) and the third extension section (1103).

[0138] Referring to FIG. 10, at least a portion of the lengths (L3) of the third extension sections (1103) of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be different. For example, the length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the second external pipe (112). The length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the third external pipe (113). The length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the first external pipe (111) may be different from the length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the fourth external pipe (114). The length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the second external pipe (112) may be different from the length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the third external pipe (113). The length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the second external pipe (112) may be different from the length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the fourth external pipe (114). The length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the third external pipe (113) may be different from the length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the fourth external pipe (114).

[0139] The third extension sections (1103) of each of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be arranged in a lower portion (214) of the housing (21). The third extension sections (1103) of each of the plurality of external pipes (110) may be arranged in a radial shape. For example, the spacing (g32) of the plurality of third extension sections (1103) in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction may increase as the distance increases closer to the external service valve (120).

[0140] However, the shape of the third extension section (1103) is not limited thereto, and may be modified in various ways as long as it has a shape for connecting the second direction change section (1106) and the external service valve (120). For example, as shown in FIG. 11, at least some of the external pipes (112A, 113A, 114A) among the plurality of external pipes (110) may further include a third direction change section (1107) and a fourth extension section (1104) connected to the third extension section (1103).

[0141] Meanwhile, in the above-described embodiment, the bracket (130) is arranged in the housing (21) so that a plurality of pipes pass through the lower part (214) of the housing (21) of the outdoor unit (20). However, the arrangement and structure of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) according to the embodiment are not limited thereto and may vary.

[0142] Fig. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an example in which a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100A) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed in an outdoor unit (20), and Fig. 13 is an enlarged view illustrating a portion of Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an example in which a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100B) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed in an outdoor unit (20).

[0143] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) is installed to be connected to the service valve (23; see FIG. 1) of the outdoor unit (20), and includes a plurality of external pipes (110), a plurality of external service valves (120), and a bracket (130). Duplicate descriptions of the same configuration as the above-described embodiment will be omitted, and descriptions will be focused on differences.

[0144] A plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged on the upper portion (213) of the housing (21). The plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged adjacent to the other side (212) of the upper portion (213) of the housing (21). In other words, the plurality of external service valves (120) may be arranged above the other side (212) of the housing (21).

[0145] The bracket (130) can be secured to the housing (21) such that a plurality of external service valves (120) are adjacent to the other side (212) of the housing (21). For example, the bracket (130) can include a first plate (131a) facing the other side (212) of the housing (21) and a second plate (132) facing the rear of the housing (21).

[0146] A first plate (131a) of the bracket (130) may be provided with a plurality of first fastening holes (1312a) into which a fastening member (43) can be inserted so as to be fixed to the other side (212) of the housing (21) and a plurality of positioning grooves (1311) into which a plurality of external service valves (120) can be inserted. A cutout (1313) may be provided in the first plate (131a) to expose a handle (215) of the housing (21) to the outside. A second fastening hole (1322) into which a fastening member (43) can be inserted may be provided in the second plate (132). The first fastening hole (1312a) and the second fastening hole (1322) may have a long hole shape that facilitates the positional movement of the fastening member (43).

[0147] Meanwhile, in the above-described embodiments, the bracket (130) supporting the external service valve (120) is described with a focus on an example in which it is fixed to the housing (21). However, the bracket (130) does not necessarily need to be fixed to the housing (21) of the outdoor unit (20), and its structure may vary as long as the position of the external service valve (120) is maintained.

[0148] For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the bracket (130B) of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100B) may not be fixed to the housing (21), but may be placed on the bottom surface. The bracket (130B) may be placed on the lower part (214) of the housing (21). For example, a portion of the bracket (130B) may be placed between a plurality of legs (22) placed on the lower part of the housing (21).

[0149] The bracket (130B) may include a valve support (1301) that supports a plurality of external service valves (120) and a pipe support (1302) that supports a portion of a plurality of external pipes (110). The width of the valve support (1301) in the front-back direction may be greater than the width of the pipe support in the front direction. However, the shape of the bracket (130) is not limited thereto and may vary.

[0150] By using the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100, 100A, 100B) according to the above-described embodiment, the refrigerant pipe (30) can be easily connected to the outdoor unit (20) at a location other than one side (211) of the outdoor unit (20). Since the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) is a separate component from the housing (21) and the service valve (23) of the outdoor unit (20), the installation position of the refrigerant pipe (30) can be changed without changing the structure of the existing outdoor unit (20). In other words, by using the separately manufactured refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100), the installation position of the refrigerant pipe (30) can be changed without changing the structure of the housing (21) and the service valve (23) of the outdoor unit (20). In addition, since the refrigerant pipe (30) can be directly connected to the service valve (23) of the outdoor unit (20) without the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100), a user who does not need to change the installation position of the refrigerant pipe (30) can avoid unnecessary costs due to the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100).

[0151] FIGS. 15A and 15B are drawings showing an example of a packaged state of a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) according to one embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) according to one embodiment may be distributed as a separate product from the outdoor unit (20) because it has a separate configuration (or an independent configuration) from the housing (21) of the outdoor unit (20) and its internal configuration. For example, the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) may be packaged in a separate box (60) so that it can be selectively purchased as needed. Shock absorbing members (61) for shock absorption may be arranged in the box (60). However, the packaging form of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) is not limited thereto and may vary.

[0152] Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing a method of connecting a refrigerant pipe (30) to an outdoor unit (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 16, a method for connecting a refrigerant pipe (30) to an outdoor unit (20) according to one embodiment includes a step of installing a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) to the outdoor unit (20) and a step of connecting a plurality of refrigerant pipes (30) to the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100).

[0154] Despite the service valve (23) provided on one side (211) of the outdoor unit (20), a worker who wishes to connect the refrigerant pipe (30) at a location other than one side (211) of the outdoor unit (20) can install a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) on the outdoor unit (20).

[0155] As an example for installing a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) in an outdoor unit (20), each of a plurality of external pipes (110) of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) can be fluidly connected to each of a plurality of service valves (23) of the outdoor unit (20). For example, one end of the external pipe (110) and the refrigerant inlet / outlet (231) of the service valve (23) can be connected using a coupling member (41).

[0156] The other end of the external pipe (110) may be fixed to the external service valve (120). Accordingly, by connecting one end of the external pipe (110) to the service valve (23), the service valve (23) and the external service valve (120) may be fluidly connected through the external pipe (110).

[0157] The bracket (130) can be fixed adjacent to the housing (21). For example, the bracket (130) can be fixed adjacent to the other side (212) of the housing (21) of the outdoor unit (20). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the bracket (130) can be fixed to the lower side of the other side (212) of the housing (21) using a fastening member (43), or as shown in FIG. 13, the bracket (130A) can be fixed to the upper side of the other side (212) of the housing (21) using a fastening member (43). As another example, as shown in FIG. 14, the bracket (130B) can be fixed to another location, such as the floor, instead of being directly fixed to the housing (21).

[0158] Next, the worker can connect the plurality of refrigerant pipes (30) to the external service valve (120) of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100). For example, the worker can use a coupling member (41) to couple an end of the refrigerant pipe (30) to the external service valve (120). Using the coupling member (41), one end of the refrigerant pipe (30) can be fluidly connected to the refrigerant pipe connection portion (1202) of the external service valve (120).

[0159]

[0160] For the purpose of understanding the invention, reference numerals have been given to preferred embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific terms have been used to describe the embodiments, but the invention is not limited by the specific terms, and the invention may include all components that can be commonly conceived by those skilled in the art.

[0161] The specific implementations described in the invention are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the invention in any way. For the sake of brevity, descriptions of conventional electronic components, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of the systems may be omitted. In addition, the lines connecting or connecting members between components depicted in the drawings are merely examples of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, and may be replaced or represented as various additional functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections in an actual device. In addition, unless specifically stated as “essential,” “important,” etc., a component may not be absolutely necessary for the application of the invention. As used herein, expressions such as “comprising,” “having,” etc. are used to be understood as terms of the open-ended part of the technology.

[0162] The use of the term "above" and similar referential terms in the specification of the invention (especially in the claims) may refer to both singular and plural. Furthermore, if a range is described in the invention, it includes inventions that apply individual values ​​within the range (unless otherwise stated), and is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting the range in the detailed description of the invention. Finally, unless the order of the steps constituting the method according to the present invention is explicitly stated or otherwise stated to the contrary, the steps may be performed in any appropriate order. The invention is not necessarily limited by the order in which the steps are described. The use of all examples or exemplary terms (e.g., "for example," etc.) in the present invention is merely to further illustrate the invention, and the scope of the invention is not limited by the examples or exemplary terms unless otherwise defined by the claims. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be readily made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

[0163] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner including a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can adjust the installation position of refrigerant pipes without structural changes to the housing and internal configuration of the outdoor unit. This refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit can be selectively provided only to users who require refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment, thereby eliminating the burden on users who do not require refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment.

[0164] An outdoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing forming an exterior, a plurality of service valves arranged on one side of the housing, and a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit connected to the plurality of service valves and configured to adjust an installation position of a refrigerant pipe.

[0165] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is configured to be connected to the refrigerant pipe and may include a plurality of external service valves positioned at different locations from one side of the housing.

[0166] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may further include a plurality of external pipes that fluidly connect the plurality of service valves and the plurality of external service valves, and have at least a portion of the pipes having a curved shape corresponding to a corner of the housing.

[0167] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may further include a bracket configured to support the plurality of external service valves.

[0168] The above plurality of external service valves may be arranged spaced apart from the one side and adjacent to the other side disposed on the opposite side from the one side.

[0169] Each of the plurality of external pipes may include a section disposed across the lower or upper portion of the housing.

[0170] Each of the above plurality of service valves may include a refrigerant inlet / outlet port for refrigerant inflow / outflow.

[0171] Each of the plurality of external pipes may include a first extension section extending along the direction in which the refrigerant inlet / outlet portion faces, a second extension section extending in a direction different from the extension direction of the first extension section, a first direction change section bent to connect the first extension section and the second extension section, a third extension section arranged across the lower or upper portion of the housing, and a second direction change section bent to connect the second extension section and the third extension section.

[0172] The lengths of the first extension sections of the plurality of external pipes may differ at least in part.

[0173] The spacing between the first extension sections of the plurality of external pipes may correspond to the spacing between the plurality of service valves.

[0174] The lengths of the second extension sections of the plurality of external pipes may be at least partially different.

[0175] The length of the third extension section of the plurality of external pipes may be at least partially different.

[0176] The third extension section of the plurality of external pipes may be arranged in a radial shape.

[0177] The above external pipe has one end detachably connected to the service valve, and the other end located on the opposite side of the one end can be fixed to the external service valve.

[0178] The arrangement of the plurality of external service valves may be different from the arrangement of the plurality of service valves.

[0179] The plurality of service valves may be arranged to be spaced apart in the vertical direction, and the plurality of external service valves may be arranged to be spaced apart in the front-back direction.

[0180] The bracket may include a plurality of positioning grooves into which the plurality of external service valves can be inserted, and may be configured to be fixed to the housing.

[0181] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and a refrigerant pipe for transferring refrigerant therebetween.

[0182] The above outdoor unit may include a housing forming an exterior, a plurality of service valves arranged on one side of the housing, and a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit connected to the plurality of service valves and configured to adjust the installation position of the refrigerant pipe.

[0183] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is configured to be connected to the refrigerant pipe and may include a plurality of external service valves positioned at different locations from one side of the housing.

[0184] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may further include a plurality of external pipes that fluidly connect the plurality of service valves and the plurality of external service valves, and have at least a portion of the pipes having a curved shape corresponding to a corner of the housing.

[0185] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may further include a bracket configured to support the plurality of external service valves.

[0186] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for installing a refrigerant pipe in an outdoor unit can be provided using a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit.

[0187] The above outdoor unit may include a housing forming an exterior, a plurality of service valves arranged on one side of the housing, and a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit connected to the plurality of service valves and configured to adjust the installation position of the refrigerant pipe.

[0188] The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit may include a plurality of external service valves configured to be connected to the refrigerant pipe and arranged at a different location from one side of the housing, a plurality of external pipes fluidly connecting the plurality of service valves and the plurality of external service valves and having at least a portion of the pipes having a shape bent to correspond to an edge of the housing, and a bracket configured to support the plurality of external service valves.

[0189] The method for installing a refrigerant pipe to the outdoor unit may include a step of installing the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit to the outdoor unit so that the external pipe of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is connected to the plurality of service valves of the outdoor unit.

[0190] The method for installing refrigerant pipes in the above outdoor unit may further include a step of connecting a plurality of refrigerant pipes to each of the plurality of external service valves of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit.

[0191] In the step of installing the above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit, the external pipe can be fluidly connected to the plurality of service valves, and the bracket can be fixed adjacent to the other side of the housing of the outdoor unit.

Claims

1. Housing (21) forming the exterior; A plurality of service valves (23) arranged on one side (211) of the above housing; and A refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) connected to the above plurality of service valves and configured to adjust the installation position of the refrigerant pipe; The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit (100) is A plurality of external service valves (120) configured to be connected to the above refrigerant pipe and arranged at different locations from one side of the housing; A plurality of external pipes (110) fluidly connecting the plurality of service valves and the plurality of external service valves, at least a portion of which has a curved shape corresponding to a corner of the housing; and An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, comprising a bracket (130) configured to support the plurality of external service valves.

2. In paragraph 1, The above multiple external service valves are, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, spaced apart from the above-mentioned one side and arranged adjacent to the other side (212) arranged on the opposite side from the above-mentioned one side.

3. In paragraph 1, Each of the above plurality of external pipes, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, comprising a section arranged across the lower or upper portion of the housing.

4. In paragraph 1, Each of the above plurality of service valves (23) includes a refrigerant inlet / outlet port (231) for the inflow / outflow of refrigerant. Each of the above plurality of external pipes (110) is A first extension section (1101) extended along the direction in which the above refrigerant inlet / outlet is directed, A second extension section (1102) extended in a direction different from the extension direction of the first extension section, A first direction change section (1105) bent to connect the first extension section and the second extension section, A third extension section (1103) arranged across the lower or upper portion of the housing, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, comprising a second direction changing section (1106) bent to connect the second extension section and the third extension section.

5. In paragraph 4, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein at least a portion of the length (L1) of the first extension section (1101) of the plurality of external pipes is different.

6. In paragraph 4, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the spacing (G31) between the first extension sections of the plurality of external pipes corresponds to the spacing (G) between the plurality of service valves (23).

7. In paragraph 4, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein at least a portion of the length (L2) of the second extension section (1102) of the plurality of external pipes is different.

8. In paragraph 4, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein at least a portion of the length (L3) of the third extension section (1103) of the plurality of external pipes is different.

9. In paragraph 4, The third extension section of the above plurality of external pipes is an outdoor unit of an air conditioner, arranged in a radial shape.

10. In paragraph 1, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the above external pipe has one end detachably connected to the service valve, and the other end located on the opposite side of the one end is fixed to the external service valve.

11. In paragraph 1, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the arrangement of the plurality of external service valves is different from the arrangement of the plurality of service valves.

12. In paragraph 11, The above plurality of service valves are arranged so as to be spaced apart in the vertical direction, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the above plurality of external service valves are arranged so as to be spaced apart in the forward-backward direction.

13. In paragraph 1, An outdoor unit of an air conditioner, wherein the above bracket (130) includes a plurality of positioning grooves (1311) into which the plurality of external service valves can be inserted, and is configured to be fixed to the housing.

14. A method for installing a refrigerant pipe to an outdoor unit using a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit. The above outdoor unit includes a housing forming an exterior, a plurality of service valves arranged on one side of the housing, and a refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit connected to the plurality of service valves and configured to adjust the installation position of the refrigerant pipe. The above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit comprises a plurality of external service valves configured to be connected to the refrigerant pipe and arranged at a different position from one side of the housing, a plurality of external pipes fluidly connecting the plurality of service valves and the plurality of external service valves and having at least a portion of a shape bent to correspond to a corner of the housing, and a bracket configured to support the plurality of external service valves. The method of installing the refrigerant pipe in the above outdoor unit is as follows: A step of installing the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit in the outdoor unit so that the external pipe of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit is connected to the plurality of service valves of the outdoor unit; and A method for installing refrigerant pipes in an outdoor unit, comprising: a step of connecting a plurality of refrigerant pipes to each of the plurality of external service valves of the refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit.

15. In paragraph 14, In the step of installing the above refrigerant pipe installation position adjustment kit, Fluidically connecting the external pipe to the above plurality of service valves, A method for installing a refrigerant pipe in an outdoor unit, wherein the bracket is secured adjacent to the other side of the housing of the outdoor unit.

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